Sheet and block for enhancing proximity sensor performance

ABSTRACT

An electronic device can include different components providing different functionality. Some electronic devices can include a proximity sensor for determining when a user&#39;s face is near the device. The sensor can include an emitter and a detector that are separated by a foam block to limit cross-talk between the emitter and detector. A sheet can be placed over the foam block to define openings for each of the emitter and detector. Some electronic devices can also include a camera. A glass cover secured to the device enclosure can protect the camera. To improve an adhesive bond between the glass cover and a metal enclosure, an ink layer can be placed between an adhesive and the glass. In addition, the camera or another component may need to be grounded to ensure proper operation. During assembly, however, the position of the camera can shift due to closing an enclosure. A grounding assembly that maintains contact with the camera in its initial and final positions can be provided.

BACKGROUND

Electronic devices can include a variety of components that providefunctionality to the devices. For example, some devices can include aproximity sensor. As another example, some devices can include a camerafor capturing images (still images or video). As still another example,some devices can include circuitry or sensors for detecting how it beingused, such as whether a face is close by so that the touch screen shouldbe deactivated. The camera, sensors, or other circuitry can beincorporated in the electronic device using different approaches. Insome cases, however, it may be desirable to mount or connect the camera,sensors, or other circuitry in a manner that enhances the reliabilityand precision of outputs provided by the camera, sensors or othercircuitry.

SUMMARY

An electronic device can include several sensors for detecting how thedevice is used. In some cases, an electronic device can include aproximity sensor having an emitter emitting light. The light can bereflected outside of the device, and be detected by a detector. Theemitter and detector can be placed underneath a glass cover to preventdamage to the components. To ensure a proper operation of the sensor,one or more foam blocks can be placed at least between the emitter anddetector to prevent cross talk, or light emitted by the emitter beingdetected by the detector without passing through the glass cover andinto the environment (e.g., detection of emitted light due to reflectionwithin the device). In some cases, one or both of the emitter anddetector can be surrounded by foam blocks.

The disposition of the foam blocks, and the size of openings within theblocks for each of the emitter and detector, can affect the performanceof the sensor. Therefore, it may be desirable to utilize differentconfigurations of blocks providing different openings for each componentof the sensor in order to tune the sensor performance. Creatingdifferent foam blocks, and placing them accurately in the device in aconsistent manner for testing, however, may be an expensive,time-consuming, and/or difficult endeavor.

To improve performance of the sensor, a sheet of material can be appliedto a top surface of foam blocks. The material used for the sheet can bemore robust or rigid than the material used for the foam block, suchthat manipulation of the sheet is less likely to damage the foam blockthan direct manipulation of the foam block. For example, the sheet canbe constructed from Mylar adhered to a surface of the foam blocks. Thesheet can also be used to facilitate testing of the sensor.

In some cases, different sheets of material can be provided on a singlesize of foam blocks. Each sheet of material can be sized such that thesheet of material extends beyond a periphery of a surface of the foamblocks. Using this approach, the sheet boundaries can define the sizeand shape of openings for each of the emitter and detector. Each of thedifferent sheets, however, can be supported by a single size or type offoam block. This can reduce costs and accelerate the timeframe fortuning a proximity sensor, which can thereby increase the likelihoodthat the sensor will have superior performance in the device.

Some electronic devices can include a camera for capturing images. Thecamera can be enclosed within an electronic device to protect componentsof the camera, such as the lens, from damage. The enclosure can includea transparent cover through which light from the environment can betransmitted and so that it reaches the camera. The cover can be treatedor include one or more coatings for improving the performance of thecamera. For example, an oleophobic coating can be applied to an exteriorsurface of the cover, and an infrared filter can be applied to aninterior surface of the cover.

The cover can be secured to any suitable portion of the electronicdevice enclosure. In some cases, the enclosure can include an openingover which the cover is placed. The opening can be smaller than thecover, such that a ring around a periphery of the cover can come intocontact with a portion of the enclosure (e.g., an edge) forming a ringaround the opening. An adhesive (e.g., a pressure sensitive adhesive)can be applied around the opening to secure the cover to the enclosure.

Some adhesives, however, may have difficulty bonding to glass (e.g., thecover) or to metal (e.g., the enclosure). To improve the bond providedby the adhesive, an ink layer can be provided over the adhesive. Forexample, an ink layer can be applied to the ring around the periphery ofthe cover such that the ink layer is between the cover and the adhesive(which is placed in contact with the enclosure). In some cases, a filteror coating can be applied to the cover. For example, an infrared filtercan be applied to a surface of the cover. Then, a second ink layer canbe placed between the cover and the infrared filter to improve theadhesive of the infrared filter to the cover. The enclosure and covercan be heated to improve the bond provided by the adhesive. Theenclosure and cover can be secured within a fixture, which can beconstructed from silicon, to be heated.

Some electronic device components may need to be grounded to operateproperly. For example, providing a conductive path for a component toground can reduce or eliminate potential interferences caused byantennas, or by radiation emitted by other components. In some cases, acomponent such as a camera may need to be grounded by providing aconductive path between a housing of the camera and a grounding platformof the device (e.g., a portion of or connected to the enclosure).

In some cases, a component may move relative to an enclosure duringassembly. For example, a camera can be placed in an initial positionduring the assembly process, and subsequently be slid to a finalposition later in the process, such as when a cover closing theenclosure is placed over the camera and slid into place. To ensure thatthe camera operates properly, it may be desirable to ground the camerain both the initial position and in the final position. This may requirea grounding assembly that includes a movable component that canaccommodate the change in position of the camera.

The grounding assembly can take any suitable form. In some cases, thegrounding assembly can include a spring having several different armsthat deflect in different manners. The amount of deflection of arms canvary based on the position of the camera. Alternatively, the groundingassembly can include a clip and a flex. The flex can include a flexiblesection between two rigid sections. A rigid section can be connected toeach of the camera and to the grounding platform such that the flexiblesection can deform to accommodate the different positions of the cameraduring the assembly process and after the process is complete.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other features of the present invention, its nature andvarious advantages will be more apparent upon consideration of thefollowing detailed description, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an electronic device having sensors inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 1B is a back view of the electronic device of FIG. 1A in accordancewith some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2A is a front view of a proximity sensor incorporated in anelectronic device in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2B is a sectional view of the proximity sensor of FIG. 2A inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2C is a perspective view of an illustrative foam block with anintegrated sheet for use in a proximity sensor in accordance with someembodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2D is a perspective view of the foam block with an integrated sheetof FIG. 2C placed in an electronic device enclosure in accordance withsome embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an illustrative process for constructing asensor in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 4A is a sectional view of an illustrative device enclosurereceiving a camera in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 4B is a front view of the illustrative electronic device enclosureof FIG. 4A in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a detailed section view of an interface between a cover and anedge in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of several layers applied to a cover inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a diagram of a fixture retaining a body and a cover inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of an illustrative testing fixture fortesting repeated small impacts in accordance with some embodiments ofthe invention;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of an illustrative process for coupling a cover toan edge of an opening in a body in accordance with some embodiments ofthe invention;

FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a camera as it is assembled in anelectronic device enclosure in accordance with some embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a spring used for grounding a camera inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of an illustrative grounding spring inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 12B is a perspective view of the grounding spring of FIG. 12Aplaced in an electronic device enclosure with a camera in accordancewith some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a schematic view of a camera housing grounded using a clip inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 14A is a schematic view of an illustrative clip for grounding acamera in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 14B is a schematic view of another illustrative clip for groundinga camera in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 15A is a perspective view of an illustrative clip for grounding acamera in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 15B is a perspective view of the illustrative clip of FIG. 15A inwhich a flex is placed in accordance with some embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 15C is a perspective view of the illustrative clip and flex of FIG.15B placed in an electronic device in accordance with some embodimentsof the invention;

FIG. 16 is a flowchart of an illustrative process for grounding acomponent in an electronic device in accordance with some embodiments ofthe invention;

FIG. 17A is an exploded view of a camera assembly placed in anelectronic device in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 17B is a perspective view of the camera assembly of FIG. 17A placedin an electronic device in accordance with some embodiments of theinvention; and

FIG. 18 is a sectional view of an illustrative camera and boot placed inan electronic device in accordance with some embodiments of theinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An electronic device can include several sensors for providinginformation to the device. Such sensors can include, for example, aproximity sensor and a camera. The sensors can be incorporated in thedevice such that their functionality is assured while protecting thesensors for damage due to use of the device. In addition, the processfor assembling the sensor can be improved, thus improving thereliability and performance of the sensor.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an electronic device having sensors inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention. FIG. 1B is a backview of the electronic device of FIG. 1A in accordance with someembodiments of the invention. Electronic device 100 can includeenclosure 110 defining exterior surfaces of the device. Enclosure 110can be constructed from one or more components that can be combined toprovide a structure for the device. For example, enclosure 110 caninclude a housing in which device components are placed or mounted. Asanother example, enclosure 110 can include a band defining a peripheryof the device, and covers placed over the band. Enclosure 110 can beconstructed from any suitable material including, for example, a metal(e.g., aluminum or stainless steel), plastic, composite material, orcombinations of these. In some cases, the materials used can be selectedto take advantage of one or more of mechanical properties or cosmeticattributes.

Electronic device 100 can include display region 120 through whichinformation can be provided to a user. Display region 120 can extendover any suitable portion of enclosure 110. In some cases, displayregion 120 can extend over most or all of a front surface, a backsurface, or both surfaces of enclosure 110. Display circuitry placedunderneath the display region can be controlled by a processor or othercontrol circuitry to provide information viewable by a user. In somecases, display region 120 can have a larger size than the displaycircuitry. For example, display region 120 can include a glass componenthaving dark bands around a periphery of portion of display regioncovering the display circuitry. Alternatively, display region 120 caninclude a portion of a larger component serving as a cover withinenclosure 110. For example, display region 120 can correspond to aregion of glass window 122 placed over a band.

To provide different functionality to a user, electronic device 100 caninclude different sensors. For example, electronic device 100 caninclude proximity sensor 130 positioned such that a portion of sensor130 can interface with the outside of electronic device 100 is placed.Sensor 130 can be placed adjacent to a portion of window 122 such thatlight or other radiation can be transmitted between sensor 130 and thedevice environment through window 122. In some cases, window 122 caninclude one or more transparent or translucent regions surrounded byopaque regions for defining specific regions through which light canpass as it leaves the sensor or reaches the sensor. For example, anemitter of sensor 130 can be placed adjacent to a first transparentregion of window 122, and a detector of sensor 130 can be placedadjacent to a second transparent region of window 122. In some cases,the opaque regions can be defined using any suitable approach including,for example, by an ink layer applied to the window.

In addition to sensor 130, electronic device 100 can include camera 140for capturing images. Camera 140 can be placed in any suitable portionof enclosure 110 including, for example, adjacent to window 122 or toback cover 124. To allow a lens of camera 140 to capture images, camera140 can be exposed within enclosure. It may be desirable, however, toprovide cover 142 over camera 140 to protect the camera lens fromdamage. Cover 142 can be incorporated in enclosure 110 such that lightcan be transmitted through cover 142 and enclosure 110 and to camera140. In some cases, cover 142 can be a component distinct from backcover 122 that is placed within an opening of back cover 122.Alternatively, cover 142 can be constructed from a portion of back cover122.

FIG. 2A is a front view of a proximity sensor incorporated in anelectronic device in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.Electronic device 200 can include glass cover 210 providing an externalsurface of the device. Glass cover 210 can include translucent ortransparent regions 214 and 216, and opaque region 212. Any suitableapproach can be used to render regions 214 and 216 transparent, andregion 212 opaque. For example, regions 214 and 216 can be polished oretched. As another example, an ink layer or other opaque material can bedeposited on region 212. The material selected for opaque region 212 maybe such that light or other radiation may not pass through opaque region212, but must instead pass through one of regions 214 and 216, forexample to reach proximity sensor 220 aligned with one or both ofregions 214 and 216. Regions 214 and 216 can have any suitable sizeincluding, for example, the same or different sizes. In some cases, thesizes may be determined from the sizes of emitter 222 and detector 224.

In some cases, proximity sensor 220 can include at least two distinctcomponents that combine to determine the distance between objects andthe device. In particular, proximity sensor 220 can include emitter 222operative to emit light that passes through region 214, and detector 224operative to receive light that passes through region 216. Emitter 222can include any component operative to emit or transmit light or otherforms of radiation. For example, emitter 222 can include a LED or otherlight source. Light provided by emitter 222 can be transmitted throughregion 214 of cover 210 at any suitable interval. In some cases, controlcircuitry of the device can establish intervals or moments in time atwhich light is to be emitted. Light can be emitted continuously, aspulses, or as combinations of these.

Light emitted by emitter 222 and passing through cover 210 can bereflected by objects around the device such that a portion of thereflected light can be return through region 216 of cover 210. Detector224 can be placed adjacent to region 216 such that reflected light maybe detected by detector 224. Detector 224 can include any suitablecircuitry for detecting light or other forms of radiation emitted byemitter 222, or changes in light or other forms of radiationcorresponding to emissions of emitter 222. For example, detector 224 caninclude a capacitive, optical, or resistive component for detectingchanges in a measurable property.

To improve sensor performance, emitter 222 and detector 224 can beplaced in cavities 232 and 234, respectively, such that the sensorcomponents are offset from side walls or boundaries of a sensor body inwhich cavities 232 and 234 are formed. This may allow more light emittedby emitter 222 to be transmitted through cover 210, and may allow morelight reflected by the environment to be detected by detector 224.

It may be necessary to limit the amount of light or other radiationemitted by emitter 222 that is detected by detector 224 without beingreflected by the environment (e.g., limit cross-talk) to ensure a properoperation of sensor 220. In particular, it may be necessary to ensurethat emitted radiation is not transmitted within electronic device 200and immediately detected by detector 224, as this may result in a falsedetection of an object near sensor 220. Several approaches can be usedto isolate emitter 222 from detector 224. As a first approach, cover 210can include an opaque region separating transparent regions associatedwith each of emitter 222 and detector 224. The opaque region mayeliminate most or all paths for light internally reflected by cover 210between emitter 222 and detector 224.

In some cases, electronic device 200 can include material placed betweenemitter 222 and detector 224 for preventing cross talk between thesensor components (e.g., by placing emitter 222 in cavity 232, andplacing detector 224 in cavity 234). As shown in FIG. 2B, emitter 222can be secured between side wall 240 and center wall 244 of body 241,and detector 224 can be secured between center wall 244 and side wall242 of body 241. Side walls 240 and 242 can, in at least some regions,extend to cover 210 such that the cover can be placed in contact withthe side walls. Some materials selected for body 241 and cover 210 maybe such that light is reflected or transmitted at or near the interfacebetween the components, which may adversely affect the operation ofsensor 220. To absorb excess emissions and prevent cross-talk,electronic device 200 can include a compliant and opaque material placedbetween body 241 and cover 210 around a periphery of regions 214 and 216(e.g., around a periphery of the openings of cavities 232 and 234).

Electronic device 200 can include foam block 252 placed in ledge 243 ofside wall 240 such that foam block 252 provides an interface betweenside wall 240 and cover 210 around a portion of the periphery of region214 (e.g., the height of the ledge, or the distance between the ledgeand an outer surface of body 241 is smaller than the height of foamblock 252). Similarly, electronic device 200 can include foam block 254placed between center wall 244 and cover 210 to provide an interfacearound another portion of the periphery of region 214. Foam block 254can be aligned with center wall 244 using any suitable approachincluding, for example, using protruding or recessed features in anupper or exposed surface of center wall 244. In some cases, foam blocks252 and 254, alone or in combination with other foam blocks, cansurround a periphery of region 214 adjacent to cover 210 to improve theperformance of emitter 222. For example, as shown in FIG. 2C, foamblocks 252, 254 and 256 can be part of a single foam block thatsurrounds an emitter and a detector, corresponding to cavities 232 and234, respectively.

Electronic device 200 can include foam block 256 placed in ledge 245 ofside wall 242 such that foam block 256 provides an interface betweenside wall 242 and cover 210 around a portion of the periphery of region216. Foam block 254, placed over center wall 246, can extend over centerwall 246 such that different sides of foam block 254 provide interfacesbetween center wall 246 and cover 210 for each of regions 214 and 216.Similar to region 214, foam blocks 256 and 254, alone or in additionwith other foam blocks, can surround a periphery of region 216 adjacentto cover 210 to improve the performance of detector 224. In some cases,as shown in FIGS. 2C and 2D, foam blocks 252, 254 and 256 can be part ofa single foam block.

Each of the foam blocks can be secured within electronic device 200using any suitable approach. In some cases, a foam block can be retainedby compression forces applied to the foam block by cover 210 and a sidewall or center wall (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2D). For example, a foamblock can be placed in a ledge of a side wall, or on an upper surface ofa center wall, and be at least partially compressed such that it ispress fit between the side wall or center wall and cover 210 when cover210 is placed on the device. In such cases, each foam block can be sizedsuch that the height of the foam block is larger than the height of aledge (e.g., a distance between a portion of a wall on which the foamblock will lie and a cover). The height selected for the foam block canbe determined from one or more of the type of material used for the foamblock, the elasticity or sponginess of the foam block material, thespace in the device for the foam block, properties of the sensor (e.g.,the type of light emitted), or combinations of these.

In other cases, an adhesive or other securing mechanism can be used tosecure a foam block to one or more of a wall and the cover. For example,a heat sensitive, pressure sensitive, or other adhesive can be used tosecure a foam block to a ledge in a side wall, or to a top surface of acenter wall. As another example, tape can be used to secure a foam blockto any exposed surface of a wall (e.g., a top or side surface of a sidewall) or of the cover. As still another example, a mechanical fastenercan be used.

The performance of sensor 220 may, in some cases, depend on the distancebetween foam blocks 252 and 254, and on the distance between foam blocks254 and 256. More specifically, the performance of sensor 220 may dependon the size of regions 214 and 216 in cover 210, where the dimensions ofthe regions may be defined by the distance between the foam blockswithin cavity 232 in which emitter 222 is placed, the distance betweenthe foam blocks within cavity 234 in which detector 224 is placed, orboth. Therefore, the particular dimensions and shape of each foam blockcan be critical to the performance of sensor 220.

When electronic device 200 is constructed, each foam block can beindividually placed adjacent to a wall. Because the material used foreach foam block may be compliant, some blocks may be deformed or damagedas they are assembled, which can adversely affect the performance ofsensor 220. In addition, to test the performance of sensor 220, it maybe desirable to test different sizes of regions 214 and 216.Accordingly, foam blocks having different sizes can be defined and usedto test different sizes of open regions through which light or otherradiation associated with sensor 220 can be transmitted. The process ofcreating of each foam block may be expensive, and due to the fragilenature of each foam block, testing results may be unreliable or costly.

To improve the reliability of the foam blocks used for sensor 220, andto facilitate testing different attributes of sensors, a sheet ofmaterial can be embedded on a surface of one or more foam blocks. Forexample, a sheet of material can be provided on an upper or top surfaceof a foam block such that the sheet of material is between the foamblock and cover 210. In the example of FIG. 2B, electronic device 200can include sheet 262 placed adjacent to foam block 252, and sheet 264placed adjacent to foam block 254. In some cases, a sheet can instead orin addition be provided adjacent to foam block 256. Electronic device200 can include several distinct sheets, for example corresponding todifferent foam blocks, or a single sheet extending continuously around aperiphery of region 214 and 216. In the example of FIGS. 2C and 2D,sheet 262 and 264 correspond to different portions of a single sheetthat covers the entirety of the foam block used for the sensor.

Each sheet can have any suitable size. In some cases, a sheet can belarger than a surface of a foam block (e.g., larger than a top surfaceof a foam block) such that a boundary of the sheet extends beyond aboundary of a foam block. The boundary of the sheet can then define aperiphery for one of regions 214 and 216. The sheet may, in someembodiments, be no smaller than a surface of a foam block on which it isplaced (e.g., the sheet is at least as big as a top surface of the foamblock). The sheet can have any suitable height or thickness including,for example, a thickness selected to ensure suitable mechanicalproperties while limiting the size of the sheet. In some cases, thesheet thickness may be substantially smaller than a height of a foamblock adjacent to the sheet.

The amount by which a sheet extends beyond a boundary of a foam blockcan be tuned to improve or enhance the performance of sensor 220. Forexample, several sheets having different dimensions can be coupled to asingle size foam block for testing. This approach may be beneficial, asmanufacturing a variety of foam blocks may be a complex, time consuming,or expensive process, while cutting sheets in different sizes may bequick and cheaper.

The sheets can be constructed from any suitable material. In some cases,the material can be selected based on mechanical or material properties.For example, a material can be selected to have a particular robustness,stiffness or resistance to forces applied during assembly. As anotherexample, a material can be selected based on its rigidity (e.g., tomaintain its shape once sensor 220 is assembled). As still anotherexample, the material can be selected based on absorption, transmission,or reflectivity properties corresponding to the type of radiation orlight emitted by sensor 220. A suitable material can include, forexample, a polyester film, a polyethylene terephthalate (e.g., Mylar), apolymer, or any other material. The material selected for the sheets canbe more robust or resistant to damage than the material selected forfoam blocks. In such cases, when sensor 220 is assembled, the personplacing a foam block and sheet in the sensor may manipulate the sheetinstead of the foam block, which may protect the foam block from damage.

A sheet can be coupled to a foam block using any suitable approach. Insome embodiments, an adhesive or tape can be used to couple a sheet to afoam block. Alternatively, a heat or pressure based approach can be usedto couple the components. As another example, a lamination process canbe used to couple a sheet to a foam block. In some cases, the sheet andfoam block can instead be separate, and simply held together by a pressfit between a side wall and the device cover.

The sheet and foam block can be coupled at any suitable time. In somecases, each of the sheet and foam block can be independentlyconstructed, and subsequently coupled for assembly in sensor 220 ordevice 200. Alternatively, the sheet and foam block can first be coupledto each other, and subsequently defined using an appropriate process.The particular approach used may depend, in part, on manufacturingprocesses used for each of the sheet and foam block.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an illustrative process for constructing asensor in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Process 300can begin at step 302. At step 304, a body that includes a first cavitycan be provided. The body can include an outer surface in which thecavity is defined, such that a wall forming a closed loop extends aroundan opening in the outer surface to define sides for the cavity. At step306, an emitter can be secured in the first cavity. In some cases, othertypes of sensors can be placed in the first cavity. At step 308, a blockcan be placed adjacent to the wall. The block can extend around at leasta portion of the opening. In some cases, the block can include a foamblock providing a seamless interface between the body and a cover placedover the body. At step 310, a sheet can be coupled to a surface of theblock. The particular surface of the block to which the sheet is coupledcan include, for example, a surface that is co-planar with the outersurface of the body (e.g., a surface facing out of the cavity), as shownin FIG. 2B. In some cases, the sheet can be constructed from a materialthat is more resistant to damage than a material used for the block.Process 300 can end at step 312.

The electronic device can include several sensors for capturinginformation from a device environment. In some cases, the electronicdevice can include a camera. FIG. 4A is a sectional view of anillustrative device enclosure that includes a camera in accordance withsome embodiments of the invention. FIG. 4B is a front view of theillustrative electronic device enclosure of FIG. 4A in accordance withsome embodiments of the invention. Enclosure 400 can include body 402forming an external component of the device. For example, enclosure 400can include a cover (e.g., cover glass), housing, band, or othercomponent providing structure to the device. Body 402 can be constructedfrom any suitable material including, for example, a metal, glass,plastic, or combination of these (e.g., glass secured to a metal, ormetal overmolded with plastic).

To protect the camera lens from damage, camera 420 can be recessedrelative to body 402. In some cases, camera 420 can be placed belowbottom surface 403 of body 402, such that camera 420 captures imagesfrom light passing through opening 405 in body 402. The size of opening405 can be selected based on properties of the camera including, forexample, lens type, sensor size, camera processor, or other propertiesof the camera.

Although camera 420 may be recessed relative to body 402, it may bedesirable to further protect the camera by providing cover 430 coupledto body 402 and positioned over opening 405. Cover 430 can be positionedwithin cavity 410 created by side walls 408 of body 402, where cavity410 extends from opening 405 away from camera 420 towards an outersurface of enclosure 400. Cavity 410 can be sized such that the entiretyof opening 405 falls within cavity 410 (e.g., walls 408 are offset froma periphery of opening 405). In some cases, cavity 410 can besubstantially centered relative to opening 405 to enhance optical orcosmetic attributes of camera 420. The height of cover 430 cansubstantially match the height of cavity 410 (e.g., the height of walls408) such that top surface 432 of cover 430 can be substantially flushor co-planar with top surface 409 of walls 408, or with an outer surfaceof enclosure 400 (e.g., co-planar with a glass cover placed on surface407 of body 402).

To ensure that the operation of camera 420 is not adversely affected,cover 430 can be constructed from a material that is substantiallytransparent or translucent. For example, cover 430 can be constructedfrom a plastic, glass, or composite material. In some cases, thematerial selected can be resistant to scratching, denting, cracking, orother forms of failure that may affect the quality of images capturedthrough cover 430, the integrity of camera 420 or of the device, theaesthetic appeal of the device, or combinations of these. Some materialscan be treated, for example using a coating, a manufacturing process, orby including additives to improve particular mechanical properties ofthe cover (e.g., an oleophobic coating, an anti-smudge coating, or aheat hardening process).

Cover 430 can be secured to any suitable portion of body 402. Becausecover 430 should provide a clear path for light to reach camera 420,however, center region 432 of cover 430 that is aligned with opening 405should remain unobstructed. This may result in that the amount of cover430 remaining that may be obstructed by a securing mechanism, or region434, may be substantially reduced. Region 434 may contact differentportions of body 402. For example, region 434 can contact surface 412 ofside walls 408. As another example, region 434 can contact edge 406 ofbody extending between side walls 408 and opening 405. In some cases,the size and disposition of opening 405 can define the width and shapeof edge 406. Edge 406 may provide a platform on which cover 430 can restdue to the offset of walls 408 relative to opening 405.

Different approaches can be used to secure cover 430 to one or more ofsurface 412 and edge 406, or to other portions of body 402. Although thefollowing discussion will describe securing cover 430 to edge 406, itwill be understood that some or all of the embodiments described canapply to surface 412 or other surfaces of body 402 that contact cover430. To reduce the space required to secure cover 430 to body 402, oneapproach can include using an adhesive.

FIG. 5 is a detailed section view of an interface between a cover and anedge in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Body 502 caninclude wall 508 and edge 506 extending at an angle from wall 508 (e.g.,vertically from wall 508). Cover 530 can be positioned such that region532 is not obstructed by edge 506, while region 534 is placed adjacentto edge 506. Bottom surface 536 of cover 530 can be in part secured tosurface 507 of edge 506 (i.e., portions of surface 536 that correspondto region 534). In some cases, side surface 538 of cover 530 caninstead, or in addition, be at least in part secured to surface 509 ofwall 508.

In one approach, a single layer of adhesive can be placed betweensurfaces 507 and 536 to secure cover 530 to edge 506 (not shown). Forexample, a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) or heat sensitive adhesivecan be applied to one or both of surfaces 507 and 536, and cover 530 canbe placed in contact with edge 506. In some cases, a fixture can applypressure to bring the two components together. This approach, however,may have limited effectiveness based on the materials used for cover 530and edge 506. In particular, a PSA may provide a more fragile bond whencover 530 is constructed from glass and body 502 is constructed frommetal.

In some cases, several overlapping layers of materials can be providedon surface 536 of cover 530, as described in more detail below. It willbe understood, however, that one or more of the layers can be omitted,or that the order in which the layers are applied can be changed. Somelayers of material applied to one or both of cover 530 and edge 506 canimprove the performance of a camera may further modify the bond createdby a PSA. For example, infrared (IR) layer 542 can be provided onsurface 536 to filter infrared light from the camera. As anotherexample, an ultraviolet (UV) filter or other type of filter or materialcan be applied to surface 536. The layer (e.g., layer 542) can beprovided over the portions of surface 536 that correspond to one or bothof regions 532 and 534 (not shown). The material used for layer 542, themethod of application (e.g., physical vapor deposition, PVD), or otherattributes of layer 542 can interact with pressure sensitive adhesive(PSA) 540 and affect the bond created between layer 542 and edge 506.

It may be important, therefore, to improve the bond provided by PSA 540between layer 542 and edge 506. One approach can include providing inklayer 550 between IR layer 542 and PSA 540. Ink layer 550 can bedeposited over IR layer 542 or PSA 540 using any suitable approachincluding, for example, pad printing or silk screen printing. Propertiesof the ink used in the ink layer can enhance the bond between IR layer542 and PSA 540, and thus improve the bond between IR layer 542 and edge506. The particular pigment or material used for ink layer 550 can beselected based on its effect on PSA 540. In some cases, ink layer 550may be a black ink layer.

The strength of the bond between cover 530 and edge 506 may bedetermined from the strength of the bond between edge 506 and IR layer542, described above, as well as the strength of the bond between cover530 and IR layer 542. In some cases, an IR layer may have limitedadhesive with a material of cover 530, such as glass. For example, aninfrared material deposited via PVD may adhere weakly to a glasssurface. To strengthen the bond between cover 530 and IR layer 542, asecond ink layer 552 can be provided between the cover and IR layer. Inklayer 552 can be deposited on one or both of surface 536 and IR layer542. Ink layer 552 can be provided using any of the techniques describedabove. The pigment or material used for ink layer 552 can be the same ordifferent from the pigment or material used for ink layer 550. In somecases, the particular pigment or material can be selected based onproperties of the material used for cover 530 or for edge 506.

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of several layers applied to a cover inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention. Cover assembly 600can include cover 630 to be placed over a camera. Cover 630 can have anysuitable shape including, for example, a cylindrical shape. In somecases, the shape of cover 630 can include features for direct light in aparticular manner (e.g., an indentation, or internal features forguiding light). Cover 630 can include anti-smudge or oleophobic coating631 applied to an exterior surface of cover 630.

Ink layer 652 can be applied to a surface of cover 630 opposite thesurface on which coating 631 is applied. Ink layer 652 can form anysuitable shape on cover 630. In some cases, ink layer 652 can define aring corresponding to regions around a periphery of cover 630 that aresupported by a body (e.g., portions of cover 650 that are not alignedwith a lens of the camera). IR layer 642 can be applied to cover 630over ink layer 652. Because IR layer 642 can be applied to cover 630 toimprove the performance of the camera, IR layer 642 may be applied overportions of cover 630 that allow light to reach a camera. IR layer 642may then be applied in part over ink layer 652 and in part directly ontoa surface of cover 630.

Additional ink layer 650 can be applied to cover assembly 600 over IRlayer 642. Ink layer 650 can cover any suitable portion of IR layer 642.In some cases, ink layer 650 can have substantially the same shape andsize as ink layer 652 (e.g., define a ring). Ink layers 650 and 652 caninclude some or all of the features of ink layers 550 and 552, describedabove.

The body and cover can be retained in a fixture during assembly. FIG. 7is a diagram of a fixture retaining a body and a cover in accordancewith some embodiments of the invention. Body 702 can be retained byfixture 760 such that cavity 710 remains exposed. Cover 730 can beplaced within cavity 710 such that a surface of cover 730 is adjacent toedge 706 of body 702. One or more layers 742 of ink, IR material, oradhesive can be placed between cover 730 and edge 706 to secure cover730 to body 702. To improve the adhesion of layer 742, body 702 andcover 730 can be heated or baked (e.g., when a heat sensitive adhesiveis used among layers 742). Fixture 760 can be constructed from amaterial that is compliant and that maintains its shape at hightemperatures (e.g., temperatures at which layers 742 are heated). Onesuch material can include silicon, or silicon-based composites.

To ensure that the coupling approach used to connect a cover to anenclosure is suitable, it may be necessary to test the bond providedbetween the components. For a test to be realistic, however, it shouldreplicate expected modes of failure of devices used in the field. Insome cases, when it is subject to different types of impacts. Forexample, the cover can become detached when a device in which the coveris placed is subject to a large drop, or when the device is subject torepeated smaller impacts. To ensure that consumers will be satisfiedwith the device, it may be desirable to test the bond between the coverand the body for both types of impacts. Damage from large drops orimpacts can be easily tested by dropping the device from a predefinedheight, and verifying whether or not the cover has become detached.Testing repeated smaller impacts, however, may require a dedicatedtesting fixture.

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of an illustrative testing apparatus fortesting repeated small impacts in accordance with some embodiments ofthe invention. Fixture 800 can include base 840 having support 842operative to receive body 802. For example, surface 844 of support 842can correspond to a shape of body 802. Support 842 can include opening846 in which wall 808 of body 802, and cover 830 adhered to body 802 byadhesive layer 832, can extend.

Base 840 can be constructed such that opening 805 in body 802 throughwhich light can reach surface 831 of cover 830 is exposed. To test thebond between cover 830 and body 802, fixture 800 can include striker 850positioned adjacent to surface 831 of cover 830 within opening 805.Striker 850 may be operative to move along an axis perpendicular tosurface 831 (e.g., axis 860) to apply a force to dislodge cover 830 frombody 802. Striker 850 can include striking surface 852 thatsubstantially matches surface 831 of cover 830 so that striker 850 canapply a uniform force to cover 830.

To apply a consistent and measured force to cover 830, fixture 800 caninclude ball 860 dropping onto receiving surface 854 of striker 850.Receiving surface 854 can be shaped to receive ball 860 in a consistentand predictable manner. For example, surface 854 can include anindentation corresponding to the curvature of ball 860. Ball 860 canhave any suitable shape. For example, ball 860 can include a sphere, acylinder, a cube, a prism, or any other shape.

The particular force applied by each ball drop can be selected by tuningthe weight of the ball, the size of the ball, the size of receivingsurface 854, the height from which ball 860 is dropped, or otherattributes of striker 850 and ball 860. To test the bond between cover830 and body 802, ball 860 can be repeatedly dropped on striker 850 froma predetermined height until cover 830 separates from body 802. If thenumber of drops required to dislodge cover 830 from body 802 exceeds athreshold number, the bond between cover 830 and body 802 can bedetermined to be adequate. In one approach, ball 860 can be dropped from1.2 meters at least 30 times. If the cover remains coupled to the bodyafter the 30 drops, the process used to couple the cover to the body maybe deemed satisfactory. Although this test may be destructive, it can beused to confirm that a particular process used to couple a cover to abase is satisfactory, or to spot check devices during manufacturing.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of an illustrative process for coupling a cover toan edge of an opening in a body in accordance with some embodiments ofthe invention. Process 900 can begin at step 902. At step 904, a coverconstructed from a transparent material can be provided. The cover candefine a three-dimensional shape through which light may pass to reach acamera lens. At step 906, a body in which to mount the cover can beprovided. The body can include a base having an opening, and a wallextending from the base and surrounding the opening, where the wall isoffset from a periphery of the opening to define an edge between theopening and a base of the wall. At step 908, a layer of ink can beapplied to a portion of a bottom surface of the cover. At step 910, anadhesive can be applied at least partially over the applied layer ofink. At step 912, the cover can be mounted in the body. In some cases,the applied adhesive can come into contact with the edge when the coveris mounted in the body to secure the cover to the body. Process 900 canthen end at step 914.

For many electronic device components to operate properly or mosteffectively, the components may need to be grounded to provide a returnpath for signals and power. In some cases, electronic device componentsmay need to be grounded to avoid interferences with more sensitivecomponents, such as audio components or tuning components (e.g., antennacomponents). Different portions of an electronic device can serve toground components. For example, a metal enclosure, or an internal metalframe or mid-plate can serve as a ground. As another example, a mainlogic board can serve as a ground.

Electronic device components can be connected to a ground usingdifferent approaches. For example, a wire can connect a component to aground. Alternatively, other conductive paths can serve to ground anelectronic device component. While these approaches can be adequate forgrounding components that remain immobile within the device during andafter assembly, it may be difficult to ground a component that movesbetween two positions as the device is assembled. For example, it may bemore difficult to ensure that a camera that slides from an initialposition during assembly to a final position as a device enclosure isclosed remains grounded once the device is assembled.

FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a camera as it is assembled in anelectronic device enclosure in accordance with some embodiments of theinvention. Enclosure 1000 can include midplate 1001 to which camera 1020can be secured. In some cases, cover 1002 can be placed over midplate1001 to close the device and secure camera 1020 within the device. Cover1002 can be coupled to midplate 1001 using different approaches. In somecases, cover 1002 can be slid over midplate 1001 to engage a couplingmechanism of the enclosure (not shown). For example, cover 1002 caninitially be placed in position 1004, and subsequently slid in direction1008 such that cover 1002 finishes in position 1006.

As cover 1002 slides to position 1006, some components placed onmidplate 1001 may move with cover 1002 relative to midplate 1001. Forexample, camera 1020 may move from initial position 1024, correspondingto initial position 1004 of cover 1002 to final position 1026,corresponding to final position 1006 of cover 1002. The amount by whichcamera 1020 moves can correspond to the amount by which cover 1002 moves(e.g., both camera 1020 and cover 1002 move by the same amount). Theamount of movement can be in the range of 0.1 mm to 5 mm such as, forexample, 1 mm.

As described above, it may be desirable to ground camera 1020 usingmidplate 1001. For example, midplate 1001 can include grounding platform1010 which may be connected to camera 1020 by a conductive path. Toensure that camera 1020 is properly grounded, however, it may bedesirable to provide a grounding assembly by which camera 1020 isconnected to platform 1010 in both positions 1024 and 1026. Severalapproaches can be used for providing such a grounding assembly. FIG. 11is a schematic view of a spring used that can be used for grounding acamera in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Camera 1120can be mounted on midplate 1101 such that camera 1120 moves from initialposition 1124 to final position 1126. Spring 1130 can provide anelectrically conductive path between a conductive body of camera 1120and grounding platform 1110 of midplate 1101 (e.g., provide a conductivepath between the platform and the housing of the camera). Spring 1130can be constructed from any conductive material including, for example,a metal. In some cases, spring 1130 can include a conductive coatingapplied to a non-conductive base.

Spring 1130 can include connection arm 1131 that is connected toplatform 1110 for example, using a screw. Connection arm 1131 can extendalong the direction of movement of camera 1120. Base arm 1132 can extendfrom an end of connection arm 1131 at an angle relative to connectionarm 1131. For example, base arm 1132 can be perpendicular to connectionarm 1131 such that base arm 1132 is positioned opposite a surface ofcamera 1120 that is substantially perpendicular to the movement ofcamera 1120. In other words, base arm 1132 can be opposite a surface ofcamera 1120 that moves towards or away from base arm 1132. The amount ofspring force applied by base arm 1132 can therefore be tuned by rotatingconnection arm 1131, and thus base arm 1132, relative to groundingplatform 1110.

To improve the contact between spring 1130 and camera 1120, base arm1132 can include spring arms 1134 and 1136 extending from base arm 1132towards camera 1120. In some cases, one or more of spring arms 1134 and1136 can be substantially parallel to connection arm 1131, and canextend in the direction of movement of camera 1120 from initial position1124 to final position 1126. The number of spring arms used in spring1130 can be selected based on a size of camera 1120, the amount of forceto apply to camera 1120, a spring constant or deflection associated witheach spring arm or with base arm 1132, or combinations of these. In somecases, it may be desirable to provide several spring arms to ensure thatspring 1130 remains in contact with camera 1120.

Spring 1130 can be constructed such that, when camera 1120 is in initialposition 1124, base arm 1132, spring arm 1134 and spring arm 1136 areall deflected to accommodate camera 1120. When camera 1120 is moved tofinal position 1126, base arm 1132, spring arm 1134 and spring arm 1136can all deflect less while remaining in contact with camera 1120. Inother words, the amount of deflection required from spring 1130 canchange from a larger amount to a lesser amount as camera 1120 movesrelative to midplate 1101 from position 1124 to position 1126.

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of an illustrative grounding spring inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention. FIG. 12B is aperspective view of the grounding spring of FIG. 12A placed in anelectronic device enclosure with a camera in accordance with someembodiments of the invention. Spring 1230 can include connection arm1231 connected to base arm 1232. In some cases, each of connection arm1231 and base arm 1232 can be provided in different planes that aresubstantially perpendicular (such as the configuration shown in FIG.12A). Connection arm 1231 can include opening 1240 through which screw1242 (FIG. 12B) or another connector can be provided to secureconnection arm 1231 to grounding platform 1210 of midplate 1201.

Spring 1230 can include spring arms 1234 and 1236 extending from basearm 1232. Spring arms 1234 and 1236 can be biased out of the plane ofbase arm 1232 towards opening 1240 (e.g., towards camera 1220 thatspring 1230 will ground). Spring arms 1234 and 1236 can includeindentations 1235 and 1237, respectively, at tips of the arms to providea contact point for the spring arms.

Spring 1230 can include several regions at which bending may befacilitated to allow spring 1230 to deflect. For example, base arm 1232can include elongated region 1244 extending across base arm 1232 (e.g.,extending along the axis of spring arms 1234 and 1236) for enabling basearm 1232 to deflect out of the plane of the arm. As another example,spring arm 1234 can include regions 1246 extending across spring arm1234, and spring arm 1236 can include region 1248 extending acrossspring arm 1236 to enable spring arms 1234 and 1236 to deflect. Regions1246 and 1248 can include elongated regions extending along the axis ofbase arm 1232. As discussed above, the amount of deflection provided byspring 1230 can be tuned by rotating spring 1230 around screw 1242 tochange the orientation of spring 1230 relative to camera 1220.

In some cases, other approaches can be used to provide a grounding pathbetween a midplate platform and a camera housing. FIG. 13 is a schematicview of a camera housing grounded using a clip in accordance with someembodiments of the invention. Camera 1320 can be mounted on midplate1301 such that camera 1320 moves from initial position 1324 to finalposition 1326. Grounding clip assembly 1330 can provide an electricallyconductive path between a conductive body of camera 1320 and groundingplatform 1310 of midplate 1301 (e.g., provide a conductive path betweenthe platform and the housing of the camera).

Clip assembly 1330 can include clip 1331 coupled to platform 1310, forexample using a fastener. Clip 1331 can include a base plate having anopening for securing clip 1331 to the platform, and a clip portionhaving a fold for securing flex 1332 of clip assembly 1330. Clip 1331can be constructed from any suitable conductive material to ensure thata conductive path is provided through clip assembly 1330.

Clip assembly 1330 can include flex 1332 providing a conductive pathbetween camera 1320 and clip 1331. Flex 1332 can include severaldistinct sections having different properties. For example, flex 1332can include rigid section 1334 operative to be placed in the clipportion of clip 1331, rigid section 1338 operative to be coupled tocamera 1320, and flexible section 1336 connecting rigid sections 1334and 1338. Rigid section 1334 can include an exposed conductive surfacesuch that a conductive path can be provided between rigid section 1334and clip 1331. Similarly, rigid section 1338 can be coupled to camera1320 such that an electrically conductive path is provided betweencamera 1320 and rigid section 1338.

Flexible section 1336 can provide a conductive path between rigidsections 1334 and 1338. Because camera 1320 may move, the distancebetween rigid sections 1334 and 1338 may vary. To accommodate thevariation in distance, flexible section 1336 can include a service loopor other excess material that enables rigid sections 1334 and 1338 tomove relative to one another when camera 1320 is moved within enclosure1300. The length of flexible section 1336 can be selected such that flex1332 can be secured to camera 1320 (e.g., via rigid section 1338) and toclip 1331 (e.g., via rigid section 1334) when camera 1320 is either inposition 1324 or in position 1336. The length of flexible section 1336can be selected based on the travel of camera 1320. Clip 1331 can securerigid portion 1334 using any suitable approach.

FIG. 14A is a schematic view of an illustrative clip for grounding acamera in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Groundingclip 1400 can include base plate 1402 by which clip 1400 can be coupledto a grounding platform. In some cases, base plate 1402 can include anopening through which a screw may pass. Clip 1400 can include springwall 1410 extending from base plate 1402 and folded over itself todefine cavity 1414. Wall 1410 can be biased such that end 1412 of wall1410 comes into contact with or is adjacent to tip 1404 of base plate1402. In this manner, when a rigid section of a flex (such as one ofrigid sections 1334 and 1338 described above) is placed in cavity 1414,wall 1410 can ensure that at least end 1412 and tip 1404 come intocontact with and retain the rigid section of the flex.

In some cases, a portion of the wall other than the end can close orreduce the opening of a cavity defined by the wall. FIG. 14B is aschematic view of another illustrative clip for grounding a camera inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention. Similar to groundingclip 1400, grounding clip 1420 can include base plate 1422 by which clip1420 can be coupled to a grounding platform. In some cases, base plate1422 can include an opening through which a screw may pass. Clip 1420can include spring wall 1430 extending from base plate 1422 and foldedover itself to define cavity 1434. Wall 1430 can be biased such thatpoint 1432 along wall 1430 can come into contact with or be adjacent toanother portion of wall 1430 (e.g., point 1436). In this manner, when arigid section of a flex is placed in cavity 1434, wall 1430 can ensurethat at least points 1432 and 1436 come into contact with and retain therigid section of the flex.

FIG. 15A is a perspective view of an illustrative clip for grounding acamera in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. FIG. 15B isa perspective view of the illustrative clip of FIG. 15A in which a flexis placed in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. FIG. 15Cis a perspective view of the illustrative clip and flex of FIG. 15Bplaced in an electronic device in accordance with some embodiments ofthe invention. Grounding clip 1531 can include base plate 1540 havingopening 1542 for coupling base plate 1540 to grounding platform 1510.Wall 1544 can extend from base plate 1540 to define cavity 1546 in whicha flex can be received. In particular, rigid section 1534 of flex 1532can be received within cavity 1546 and retained by wall 1544, as shownin FIG. 15B.

When assembled within enclosure 1500, rigid section 1538 of flex 1532can be coupled to a body or housing of camera 1520. For example, rigidsection 1538 can include a planar element operative to be coupled tosurface 1522 of camera 1520 (e.g., soldered or coupled using aconductive adhesive). Flexible section 1544 can deform based on aposition of camera 1520 relative to platform 1510 (and thus relative toenclosure 1500).

FIG. 16 is a flowchart of an illustrative process for grounding acomponent in an electronic device in accordance with some embodiments ofthe invention. Process 1600 can begin at step 1602. At step 1604, acomponent can be placed in an initial position relative to an enclosureof an electronic device during assembly of the device. For example, acamera can be placed in an initial position when a cover is not placedover a midplate of the device. At step 1606, a first end of a groundingcomponent can be placed in contact with the component and a second endof the grounding component can be placed in contact with a groundingplatform within the enclosure. For example, a spring can be coupled to agrounding platform such that spring arms of the spring are in contactwith a component. As another example, a grounding clip can be coupled toa grounding platform, and a flex can be connected to the component atone end and placed in the clip. More generally, a base can be coupled toa grounding platform, and a connector can be coupled to the component.At step 1608, the component can be moved from the initial position to afinal position when the enclosure is closed. The grounding component canmove to accommodate the change in position of the component so that aground in maintained at all times (both during the assembly process, andafter assembly has been completed). For example, the spring can deflectto accommodate the change in component position. As another example, aflexible section of the flex can deflect when the component positionchanges. Process 1600 can then end at step 1610.

Some components of an electronic device may require damping to ensurethat they operate properly. For example, a camera may operate best whenvibrations of the lens are dampened. FIG. 17A is an exploded view of acamera assembly placed in an electronic device in accordance with someembodiments of the invention. FIG. 17B is a perspective view of thecamera assembly of FIG. 17A placed in an electronic device in accordancewith some embodiments of the invention. Camera assembly 1705 can includecamera 1720 operative to capture light received from outside of adevice. To dampen vibrations that other electronic device components maygenerate and that may interfere with camera 1720, camera assembly 1705can include boot 1730 in which camera 1720 is placed. In particular,boot 1730 can include side wall 1732 extending around some or all of aperiphery of camera 1720 to secure the camera within boot 1730. Camera1720 may be placed adjacent to inner surface 1734 of boot 1730. Outersurface 1736 can be placed adjacent to an electronic device component(e.g., midplate 1710) when camera assembly 1700 is placed in electronicdevice 1700.

In some cases, a camera assembly may move within an electronic deviceduring assembly, as discussed above. FIG. 18 is a sectional view of anillustrative camera and boot placed in an electronic device inaccordance with some embodiments of the invention. Electronic device1800 can include midplate 1801 operative to receive camera 1820. Camera1820 can be placed within boot 1830 to dampen vibrations and improve theperformance of the camera. When camera 1820 and boot 1830 are initiallyplaced in electronic device 1800, they may be provided in position 1810.Once assembly is completed, however, the camera and boot may bedisplaced to position 1812.

For boot 1830 and camera 1820 to slide smoothly across midplate 1801,however, it may be necessary that the interface between boot 1830 (e.g.,bottom surface 1836) and midplate 1801 be slippery. To ensure thatcamera 1820 is not removed from boot 1830 while boot 1830 slides,however, it may be desirable for the interface between boot 1830 (e.g.,top surface 1834) and camera 1820 to be sticky or adhering. One approachfor providing a boot having one slippery surface and one sticky surfacemay be to create a boot having two slippery surfaces, and adding anadhesive to one of the surfaces. This approach, however, can increasethe size of the camera assembly.

Another approach can be to define boot 1830 such that surfaces 1834 and1836 have different textures. For example, surface 1834 can have asubstantially smooth texture, and therefore a high coefficient offriction, while surface 1836 can have a substantially rugged or roughtexture, and therefore a low coefficient of friction. Boot 1830, havingthese two different textures, can be constructed using differentapproaches. In some embodiments, a compression molding process can beused. The mold can be textured such that the surfaces of boots createdusing the mold have the desired textures. For example, one surface ofthe mold can be sandblasted to create a rough texture, while an oppositesurface of the mold can be polished to create a smooth texture. Thematerial used for boot 1830 can be selected based on its coefficient offriction, damping properties, ease of manufacturing, or other criteria.In some cases, boot 1830 can be constructed from silicon.

It is to be understood that the steps shown in the flowcharts above aremerely illustrative and that existing steps may be modified or omitted,additional steps may be added, and the order of certain steps may bealtered. Insubstantial changes from the claimed subject matter as viewedby a person with ordinary skill in the art, now known or later devised,are expressly contemplated as being equivalently within the scope of theclaims. Therefore, obvious substitutions now or later known to one withordinary skill in the art are defined to be within the scope of thedefined elements. Furthermore, the previously described embodiments arepresented for purposes of illustration and not of limitation. It isunderstood that one or more features of an embodiment can be combinedwith one or more features of another embodiment to provide systemsand/or methods without deviating from the spirit and scope of theinvention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A proximity sensor, comprising: a bodycomprising: an external surface; a first cavity extending into the body,wherein the first cavity comprises a first opening in the externalsurface; a second cavity extending into the body, wherein the secondcavity comprises a second opening in the external surface; an emitterplaced in the first cavity, wherein the emitter is operative to emitlight out of the first cavity; a detector placed in the second cavity,wherein the detector is operative to detect light received in the secondcavity; a foam block placed around a periphery of the first opening; anda sheet coupled to the foam block and operative to extend towards acenter of the first opening, wherein the sheet defines a window smallerthan the first opening through which light emitted by the emitterpropagates out of the body.
 2. The proximity sensor of claim 1, wherein:the first and second openings are co-planar.
 3. The proximity sensor ofclaim 1, wherein: the detector is operative to detect light emitted bythe emitter and reflected from outside of the proximity sensor.
 4. Theproximity sensor of claim 1, wherein: the foam block is operative tocompress when the proximity sensor is mounted in an electronic device.5. The proximity sensor of claim 4, wherein: the sheet extends out ofthe first cavity beyond the external surface.
 6. The proximity sensor ofclaim 5, wherein: the sheet is constructed from a material that is morerobust than the material used to construct the foam block.
 7. Theproximity sensor of claim 1, further comprising: a ledge in the firstcavity, wherein the ledge is operative to receive the foam block in thefirst cavity.
 8. The proximity sensor of claim 7, wherein: the ledge hasa height that extends into the external surface of the first cavity; andthe foam block and the sheet are stacked to have a combined height thatis larger than the height of the ledge.